If you’re craving a cozy, comforting treat that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Rich with warm spices and the natural sweetness of pumpkin, it delivers moist, tender slices that are perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a sweet finish to any meal. The best part? It’s simple to make, using pantry staples and easy steps that anyone can follow. This pumpkin bread offers that perfect balance of flavor and texture, making it utterly irresistible and an absolute must-try this season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in creating the classic taste and perfect texture of this bread. From the earthy pumpkin puree that keeps the loaf moist to the aromatic spices that bring in the fall vibe, everything combines beautifully.
- Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, adding moisture and that lovely pumpkin flavor without overpowering.
- All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure for the bread, keeping it tender and soft.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with a golden crust.
- Brown Sugar: Offers deep, caramel notes, enhancing the richness.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without weighing it down.
- Large Eggs: Bind everything together and create that lovely lift.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise perfectly.
- Salt: Balances all the flavors beautifully.
- Ground Cinnamon: Brings warmth and the quintessential pumpkin spice aroma.
- Ground Nutmeg: Adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
- Ground Cloves: A little goes a long way in adding depth and a hint of spice.
- Milk: Helps create a smooth batter and tender crumb.
How to Make Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure your pumpkin bread slips out easily after baking. Getting your pan ready beforehand is a small step that makes a big difference later.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until you have a smooth, uniform mixture. This blend of wet ingredients forms the flavorful, moist base of the bread, balancing sweetness and richness while infusing it with that classic pumpkin essence.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into the wet mixture to ensure a light, even distribution of spices and leavening. Stir gently just until there are no dry streaks left in the batter — avoid overmixing here to keep your bread tender and soft.
Step 4: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake and lovely presentation. This final touch helps the bread bake uniformly and ensures each slice looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pumpkin bread for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know your efforts paid off when the kitchen fills with that inviting aroma of spices and pumpkin filling every corner.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, which lets it set up nicely. Then transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it up and get ready to enjoy the fruits of your baking labor.
How to Serve Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Think beyond plain slices by adding a spread of cream cheese frosting or a simple slather of butter to elevate your pumpkin bread. A sprinkling of chopped nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup can also give an extra flavorful punch.
Side Dishes
This pumpkin bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea, making it an ideal accompaniment to your morning or afternoon break. For a heartier option, add a side of fresh fruit or yogurt to round out your snack or breakfast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your pumpkin bread into thick pieces and toast them lightly for a warm, crispy exterior. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a luscious dessert twist. You can even cube the bread and use it in bread pudding for a fun, comforting reinvention.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover pumpkin bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps retain moisture and flavor without drying out the slices.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe later, freeze the whole loaf or individual slices by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to three months, ready to thaw when the craving hits.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices gently in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly to bring back that fresh-baked feel. Adding a bit of butter or cream cheese spread while warm makes the experience even more delightful.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe. Just make sure you use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, to avoid extra spices and sweetness that could alter the flavor.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Stir in a half cup or so of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter before pouring it into the pan. These add-ins bring delightful texture and extra flavor layers to your pumpkin bread.
What makes this recipe easy compared to others?
This recipe is straightforward, requiring only one mixing bowl for the wet ingredients and another for the dry, with no complicated steps or unusual ingredients. Its simplicity and reliable results make it an Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe perfect for any baker.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The most reliable way is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your pumpkin bread is perfectly baked and ready to cool and enjoy.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe is a true delight for anyone looking to embrace the flavors of fall with minimal effort and maximum comfort. There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of homemade pumpkin bread fresh from the oven, warm and filled with spice. Give it a try—you won’t regret bringing this tasty, cozy treat into your kitchen and onto your table.
Print
Easy Pumpkin Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy pumpkin bread recipe is a moist and flavorful quick bread perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting treat. Made with pumpkin puree and classic warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this bread offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. The recipe is simple to prepare, using pantry staples, and bakes up golden and tender in under an hour, making it an ideal homemade snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves. Gently stir the mixture just until no dry streaks remain, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even bake.
- Bake the Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pumpkin bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For an extra moist bread, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the wet ingredients.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added to avoid a dense texture.
- Store the pumpkin bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- You can add 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor if desired.
